Community Development
BFG. Investing in businesses to build flourishing communities.
Community is a word that can be overused, but personally—we can’t hear it enough. In fact, community development is the secret ingredient in some of the biggest projects that Business for Good takes on.
A small town where declining local business opportunities challenge its future. A city where entrepreneurs are everywhere, but not all of them have the same opportunities for success. A neighborhood where institutional racism has limited the dreams of its residents. These scenarios are at the center of underserved, forgotten, and ignored communities where BFG wants to jump in and help.
With intentional support and establishment of cornerstone businesses, affordable workspaces, and improved housing, we know that investments made today can reverberate for generations to come. Because when businesses return, jobs are created, and when jobs are created, living conditions can improve. The ecosystems that we all live, work and play in are interconnected – and when we can do good in big ways, the whole community can flourish.
Take a Look at BFG Community Building Initiatives:
In the News
How Black Businesses in New York Are Trying to Close the Black-White Wealth Gap
THE WALL STREET JOURNAL - ... A major catalyst for the new organization is Ed Mitzen, a white businessman who built a successful marketing firm that he partially sold in 2020...
January 25, 2024
Business for Good Named in Fast Company’s Third Annual List of Brands that Matter
FAST COMPANY – Business for Good, an organization focused on combining financial investment with the social impact of philanthropy, announced today that they have been named to Fast Company’s third annual Brands that Matter list.
October 3, 2023
Elaine Houston has a new job
TIMES-UNION - ... Houston, who earned her doctorate in August of 2023, will bring her storytelling skills to Business For Good. Business for Good promotes social justice through community and business development ventures.
April 5, 2024
Former NewsChannel 13 anchor-reporter Elaine Houston joins Business for Good
WNYT - Former NewsChannel 13 anchor-reporter Elaine Houston has a new job. Dr. Houston is bringing her storytelling skills to Business For Good.
April 4, 2024
Emmy Award-Winning Social Justice Reporter Dr. Elaine Houston Joins Business for Good
Veteran news anchor Dr. Houston brings 33 years of robust story-telling experience to the BFG team
April 4, 2024
Meet a One Percenter Paying It Forward to the Tune of Millions
CHEDDAR - Ed Mitzen, CEO of Business for Good, explains how and why he’s giving back by funding businesses from marginalized entrepreneurs to push social change.
March 28, 2024
Capital Region fried chicken staple wants to invest in Albany
WNYT - After a challenging period where many businesses closed their doors, Hattie’s, a southern themed restaurant with deep roots in the Capital Region, is making a bold footprint in Albany.
March 14, 2024
An inside look at the new Hattie’s in Albany
NEWS 10 - Hattie’s is officially set to open in the old Lombardo’s space at 121 Madison Avenue in Albany’s South End on Thursday, March 14.
March 13, 2024
Inside the new Hattie’s Restaurant in Albany, opening this week
ALBANY BUSINESS REVIEW - The new Hattie's — in a renovated landmark building — is the latest project from Ed and Lisa Mitzen.
March 12, 2024
Checking out the set-to-open Hattie’s in Albany
TIMES UNION - Saratoga bastion of fried chicken and Louisiana cuisine, now 86 years old, takes over downtown building that was home to Lombardo’s for 99 years
March 12, 2024
New Voorheesville bike cafe holding job fair
NEWS10 - Blackbirds Bike Cafe is preparing to open at 43 South Main Street in Voorheesville. No opening exact opening date has been set yet, but it’s scheduled to open this spring.
March 8, 2024
Blackbirds Bike Cafe to Hold Voorheesville Job Fair, Announces General Manager
Hiring is underway for Voorheesville's newest business addition, current Business for Good employee Justin Romeo to serve as General Manager of Blackbirds Bike Cafe and Blackbirds Tavern.
March 8, 2024
Hattie’s Fried Chicken In Albany Gets It’s Grand Opening Date
ESPN RADIO 104.5 FM - Hattie's Award-Winning Fried Chicken To Open in Albany
February 26, 2024
‘National Institution’ Beloved By Food Network Opening In New York
HUDSON VALLEY POST - 'A national institution," beloved by a Food Network star is opening up a new location in Upstate New York. Hattie's has announced the grand opening date for its brand-new restaurant in Upstate New York.
February 26, 2024
Hattie’s Fried Chicken in Albany Gets It’s Grand Opening Date
Q105.7 FM - Hattie's Award-Winning Fried Chicken To Open in Albany
February 26, 2024
The Mitzens’ Business For Good has busy year ahead — here’s what’s next
ALBANY BUSINESS REVIEW - Business For Good founders Lisa and Ed Mitzen are opening three new restaurants and a dog boarding and day care business this year, with all the future profits pledged to the family's foundation.
February 25, 2024
Hattie’s in Albany to open March 14
TIMES UNION - The second location of the venerable Southern eatery in Saratoga takes over the former Lombardo’s Restaurant.
February 21, 2024
Hattie’s Albany to open on March 14
NEWS10 - Hattie’s Albany will officially open its doors at 121 Madison Avenue on March 14. It is the fourth edition of Hattie’s locations to join Business for Good companies.
February 21, 2024
New Hattie’s location coming to Albany
WNYT - There will soon be a new spot for fried chicken in Albany. Hattie’s Albany restaurant will open its new location on Thursday, March 14, at 121 Madison Ave. This is the fourth Hattie’s location.
February 21, 2024
‘It’s Our Responsibility’
ATLANTA BLACK STAR - U.S. Philanthropist Who Donated to Tulsa Massacre Survivors Calls on Rich White People to Pay Reparations Since Government Won’t.
February 21, 2024
Reparations Into His Own Hands
CNN - As the two remaining survivors of the 1921 Tulsa race massacre await their day in court, philanthropist Ed Mitzen ... reflects on why he feels the wealthy White community needs to "step up."
February 12, 2024
Saratoga Chowderfest 2024 draws thousands to 25th annual event
THE SARATOGIAN - The crowds were big and the chowder flowed at the 25th Saratoga Chowderfest.
February 10, 2024
2024 Hattie’s Mardi Gras event raises more than $63,000 to create opportunities for young people across New York’s Capital Region
The fundraiser, hosted at the Saratoga Springs City Center, delivered $63,160 in donations to The SEAT Center’s Culinary Lab program. Business for Good was delighted to have co-Founders Ed and Lisa Mitzen serve as hosts alongside special guest, reality TV star, Dorinda Medley.
February 9, 2024
SEEN: Hattie’s Mardi Gras 2024
TIMES UNION - Were you Seen at Hattie’s Mardi Gras, hosted by Business for Good and benefiting The SEAT Center Culinary Lab, on Jan. 27, 2024, at the Saratoga Springs City Center? The event's special guest was Dorinda Medley, a former cast member of the Bravo reality television series "The Real Housewives of NYC."
January 29, 2024
Hattie’s hosting Mardi Gras event for charity
NEWS10 - Hattie's hosting Mardi Gras event for charity
January 26, 2024
Party for the arts happens next weekend
WAMC NORTHEAST PUBLIC RADIO - “Giving Tuesday,” is a day set aside to donate to not-for-profits. This upcoming weekend is another opportunity to help organizations in need. You might call it “Party for the Arts”.
January 21, 2024
Hattie’s Mardi Gras returns to Saratoga Springs
SPOTLIGHT NEWS - The fan-favorite annual Hattie’s Mardi Gras party returns Saturday, Jan. 27, to the Saratoga Springs City Center. The event, which benefits the SEAT Center Culinary Lab, will be an evening of entertainment, music, delicious food and a silent auction.
January 19, 2024
Job fair is one step closer to opening for Hattie’s in Albany
TIMES UNION - Job seekers were welcomed ... to the newest addition to the chicken shack family of restaurants
January 16, 2024
In Her Own Words: Business for Good’s Lisa Mitzen wants to close the wealth gap
BIZWOMEN - ... When I founded Business for Good with my husband Ed in 2020, our intention was to bring our shared passion to life; closing the wealth gap in America...
January 12, 2024
Real Housewives Star Coming to Saratoga for Mardi Gras Fundraiser
SARATOGA TODAY - Dorinda Medley, star of the hit Bravo reality series “The Real Housewives of New York City,” will be a special guest at Hattie’s Mardi Gras fundraiser party at the Saratoga Springs City Center on Saturday, January 27.
January 11, 2024
Tickets on sale for Hattie’s Mardi Gras in Saratoga Springs
NEWS10 - Hattie’s Mardi Gras event is returning to Saratoga Springs in 2024. The event is set for January 27 at the Saratoga Springs City Center.
December 15, 2023
Decade after woman’s death, Saratoga Springs still seeks permanent homeless shelter
DAILY GAZETTE - ... Lisa Mitzen and her husband, Ed, have pledged $1 million toward getting a homeless shelter off the ground in the city as well. However, efforts to create a shelter have received pushback over the years, legal and otherwise....
December 13, 2023
Albany to start demolition of old Lincoln Park pool
TIMES UNION - ... Business for Good co-founder and Lincoln Park Pool Capital Campaign Committee Chairman Ed Mitzen, who was in attendance Monday, has announced a million-dollar contribution toward the project with a goal of raising another $9 million from donors around the Capital Region.
December 4, 2023
New Lincoln Park pool set to open summer 2025
NEWS10 - ... “The kids in downtown Albany deserve to have the same type of summer facility, playgrounds, rec areas that a lot of kids in the suburbs have,” said Business for Good Co-Founder Ed Mitzen.
December 4, 2023
Hattie’s in Albany expected to open in first few months of 2024
NEWS10 - Work is continuing on the new Hattie’s Restaurant in Albany with the Hattie’s sign finally being installed. Business for Good, which turns restaurants into nonprofits that put money back into the community, said the eatery is projected to open in the first few months of 2024.
November 29, 2023
Trauma, suicide and the humanity of horses
POST-STAR - Alliance180 is raising money to stop suicide among veterans, health care workers and first responders.
November 29, 2023
Hattie’s putting final touches on Albany location
TIMES UNION - A midwinter opening is projected for the restaurant in former Lombardo’s building on lower Madison Avenue.
November 27, 2023
Albany fire, police chiefs and DA to face off in cook-off
TIMES UNION - ... South End Children's Cafe... was recommended as the beneficiary by the Saratoga Springs-based Business for Good foundation, whose founder, Ed Mitzen, is a regular patron of Pearl Street Diner...
November 9, 2023
For Ed Mitzen And Business For Good, Accessibility Means Investing In Building More Equitable Communities
FORBES - A few weeks ago, I sat down with Ed Mitzen over videoconference to have a conversation about the company he co-founded in Business For Good. The organization gets straight to the point on its website, saying in part the power of business can work to “shatter barriers to equity” and “opportunity opens the door to prosperity.”
November 2, 2023
Photos: Stars Walk the Red Carpet for Black Theatre United’s Inaugural Gala
BROADWAY WORLD - Just last night, Black Theatre United (BTU) held its inaugural Gala at the Ziegfeld Ballroom... supported by Business for Good (BFG), the evening celebrated the indelible mark that Black culture has had and continues to have on Broadway.
October 31, 2023
Audra McDonald, Billy Porter, Vanessa Williams, More Perform at Black Theatre United’s Inaugural Gala October 30
PLAYBILL - Black Theatre United's inaugural gala is held October 30 at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York.
October 30, 2023
Actress Vanessa Williams Speaks About the Black Theatre United’s Sold-out Inaugural Gala with Sponsor Business for Good
EBONY - This year, the illustrious Black Theatre United (BTU) is hosting its inaugural Gala at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York on October 30... The sold-out gala is supported by one of its lead sponsors, Business for Good.
October 30, 2023
Hughes Van Ellis: Survivor, Community Advocate, Eternal Optimist
OKLAHOMA EAGLE - As a survivor of the 1921 Race Massacre, he was making a plea that through legislation, lawmakers could bring about some justice for him and the other two survivors his 109-year-old sister Viola Fletcher and 108-year-old Lessie Benningfield Randle - that the courts had denied.
October 20, 2023
Business for Good adds hospitality executive to manage its growing restaurant portfolio
ALBANY BUSINESS REVIEW - Business for Good has expanded its senior leadership team, adding a position to oversee its growing hospitality portfolio.
October 19, 2023
Business for Good named to Brands That Matter list
WNYT - The local organization, Business for Good, has been named to Fast Company’s third annual list of Brands That Matter.
October 13, 2023
Local solutions to global challenges
FAST COMPANY - How Business for Good is addressing entrepreneurial inequity—and creating lasting changes in local communities.
October 10, 2023
OPINION: Why the 90% deserve a hand up, not a handout
NYN MEDIA - Here’s how a non-profit works with high-potential entrepreneurs to make America a land of opportunity for all.
October 8, 2023
Viola Fletcher waited 102 years for reparations. She’s still waiting.
WASHINGTON POST - The oldest living survivor of the Tulsa Massacre is a key witness for a national movement gaining momentum.
October 4, 2023
Groundbreaking held for new Malta pet facility
WNYT - Construction has begun on a new site that will be offering a variety of pet services to Malta pet owners. Business for Good celebrated the groundbreaking and beginning of construction on Charlie’s Stay + Play.
September 28, 2023
High Impact Philanthropy: Ed Mitzen Of Business for Good On How To Leave A Lasting Legacy With A Successful & Effective Nonprofit Organization
AUTHORITY MAGAZINE - ...Alongside his wife ... Mitzen co-founded the award-winning Business for Good, a family of nonprofit and for-profit companies, making significant contributions to organizations focused on creating positive change. His personal passions include promoting equity, fostering stronger communities, preserving arts and culture, providing emergency services, and combating homelessness and food insecurity...
September 26, 2023
Mitzen hopes Voorheesville businesses will revitalize flagging downtown
THE ALTAMONT ENTERPRISE - While he was growing up in Voorheesville, entrepreneur Ed Mitzen used to buy baseball cards at the Stewart’s gas station and convenience store on Main Street, less than a mile from his family’s home on Stonington Hill Road.
September 18, 2023
Hattie’s holds first job fair for new Albany location
NEWS10 - On Sunday, Hattie’s Restaurant held an executive job fair for its new Albany location at the Black Chamber of Commerce and Social Club.
September 17, 2023
Hattie’s holding job fair for new Albany restaurant
NEWS10 - Hattie’s Restaurant, a popular fried chicken spot, is holding an executive job fair for it’s new restaurant on Albany’s South End.
September 13, 2023
Hattie’s Albany to hold job fair on Sunday, September 17th
Hattie’s Albany will begin its search for executive positions with a job fair held at the Albany
Black Chamber of Commerce & Social Club.
September 13, 2023
Charlie’s Stay & Play In Malta Will Be Site To Train, Board And Provide Canine Daycare
SARATOGA BUSINESS JOURNAL - There is a new 11,000-square-foot building going up behind Mahogany Ridge Dog Training and Daycare’s original leased location at 2983 Route 9 in Malta.
September 12, 2023
The top fried chicken sandwiches not from Chick-fil-A
TIMES UNION - Need a fried chicken sandwich fix but want to buy local? Here are some options.
September 6, 2023
How Ed Mitzen Pivoted His Career and Created a Business for Good (Part Two)
ADVANTAGE AUDIO - In part two, we will hear from Ed about the most rewarding and challenging aspects of building and running his businesses, as well as how he and his wife are changing the world with their nonprofit organization, Business for Good.
August 24, 2023
Wealthy and White: An engaging reexamination of 21st century philanthropy
KIRKUS - Mitzen discusses the implications of racial privilege and the importance of giving back in this nonfiction work.
August 22, 2023
How Ed Mitzen Pivoted His Career and Created a Business for Good (Part One)
ADVANTAGE AUDIO - In this episode of Coming About, David Paragamian welcomes his old friend, Ed Mitzen, a man who has achieved remarkable success in both business and philanthropy.
August 10, 2023
Tulsa Massacre Survivors Continue Their Fight for Reparations
THE ROOT - ... The victims of the Tulsa Massacre have had some relief. Last year, Ed Mitzen, a New York-based philanthropist donated $1 million to the survivors. However, many argue that true reparations needs to come from the city of Tulsa that allowed the massacre to occur...
August 8, 2023
Ed Mitzen admits mistakes, offers advice in ‘Wealthy and White’
TIMES UNION - Business for Good co-founder reflects on philanthropy in aiding communities of color as a wealthy white man.
July 19, 2023
Lawsuit seeking reparations for Tulsa Race Massacre is dismissed
NBC - Philanthropist Ed Mitzen who, along with wife, Lisa, gave the trio $1 million last year, expressed disappointment in the dismissal, calling it an "incredibly sad development."
July 8, 2023
Oklahoma judge dismisses Tulsa race massacre reparations case filed by last known survivors
CNN - ...Ed Mitzen.. told CNN on Saturday, “The Oklahoma State government should be ashamed of itself for not doing right by these three wonderful people, one of whom fought for this country in World War II.”
July 8, 2023
Saratoga Springs-based philanthropist Ed Mitzen publishes book on Business for Good
WAMC -- Throughout the book, it seems as though Mitzen wanted to encourage his readers to just start doing good work, no matter the size of the project, and to stay committed.
July 5, 2023
ONLY ON 13: Successful Saratoga Springs business owner asks 1% to give up some wealth
WNYT - “Wealthy and White” is a book that has people talking, and it is frank. It addresses an audience some people have disdain for – the 1%, the super wealthy.
June 29, 2023
Albany restaurant owner grateful for gift to help grow
WNYT - ...When Kizzy Williams talks of Mitzen, it is not just about how his nonprofit, Business for Good, has helped her strategize and improve her business’s bottom line. It is also about how Mitzen has seemingly bestowed upon her the agency to dream bigger....
June 29, 2023
Lombardo’s Restaurant sign removed, will return as Hattie’s
TIMES UNION - An opening in late fall is projected for downtown Albany location of Saratoga-based Hatties.
June 25, 2023
Hattie’s Restaurants announces job fair for Monday, June 26
Hattie’s Restaurants aims to hire six team members for the summer 2023 season, July-Labor
Day.
June 21, 2023
Survivors Aged 109 and 102 Continue Tulsa Race Massacre Court Case: ‘It’s Like They’re Waiting for Them to Die’
THE MESSENGER ... Philanthropist Ed Mitzen awarded the three survivors $1 million last year to "help make their lives a little bit easier." Their lawsuit, however, seeks to provide relief and justice for their Black descendants, including those born after the attack, who continue to grapple with its financial impact ...
June 20, 2023
What Juneteenth and ‘freedom’ mean to an 109-year-old survivor of the Tulsa Race Massacre
CNN - ... (BFG co-Founder Ed) Mitzen said he was frustrated with the slow progress of the judicial system for these survivors’ cases, and so he took matters into his own hands – a move he feels others in his position should be doing more in a range of circumstances...
June 20, 2023
Two survivors of the Tulsa race massacre seek justice
SPECTRUM NEWS ... Last year, the philanthropic group “Business For Good” gave a $1 million donation to Ford Fletcher, Van Ellis and the third survivor, Leslie Randle. To date, it’s the only money they’ve ever received ...
June 19, 2023
This Inc. 5000 Honoree Wants White Entrepreneurs to Help Change America’s Racial Status Quo
INC. - In a new book, Fingerpaint founder Ed Mitzen discusses how people like him can step up and make a difference.
June 15, 2023
‘Think A Little Bit Differently’: New Book By Local Philanthropist Encourages Others To Challenge Inequalities
SARATOGA TODAY - A new book written by local entrepreneur and philanthropist Ed Mitzen hopes to encourage people in his position to “do things differently” relating to systemic and racial inequality in America.
June 15, 2023
Local resident, philanthropist publishes book
THE SARATOGIAN - Spa City resident Ed Mitzen recently announced the release of his new book, “Wealthy and White.”
June 12, 2023
Entrepreneur and Philanthropist Ed Mitzen Releases New Book, ‘Wealthy and White’
May 31, 2023
Family behind Business for Good foundation eyes Charlie’s Stay & Play project in Malta
ALBANY BUSINESS REVIEW - The Mitzens are seeking permission to construct a 12,000-square-foot pet day care, training, grooming and boarding center near Northway Exit 13.
May 24, 2023
Business For Good™ Presents Albany’s Baby Institute With A New Passenger Van And Website
April 25, 2023
Business For Good™ and Red Cross of Eastern New York Launch Next Generation Bloodmobile
April 19, 2023
Red Cross and Business for Good to launch Blood Mobiles
NEWS10 - On April 19, a ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held for a new Red Cross Blood Mobile assigned to the Capital Region. The Blood Mobile was made available with the generosity and support of Business for Good.
April 17, 2023
New tavern, bike cafe to open in Voorheesville
NEWS10 - ...Blackbirds Tavern and Bike Café are part of the Business for Good family of companies. Business for Good invests in people to build better businesses, stronger communities, and a more equitable world.
April 12, 2023
Saratoga Performing Arts Center’s CulinaryArts@SPAC Presents A Southern Opus: Hattie’s featuring Chef Mark Graham
April 4, 2023
CulinaryArts@SPAC Presents A Southern Opus: Hattie’s featuring Chef Mark Graham
Join Hattie’s Executive Chef Mark Graham at ThePines@SPAC on Friday, May 12 for “A Southern Opus” ...The soulful and sophisticated New Orleans-inspired menu...
April 4, 2023
Business For Good™ Announces Appointment Of Four New Board Members From The Capital Region To Its Foundation
March 30, 2023
Business for Good announces appointment of four new Capital Region Board members
Angela Beddoe, Jahkeen Hoke, Dwayne Killings and Angelique Powell have been named board members of the Saratoga Springs based Business for Good, effective immediately.
March 30, 2023
Double H Ranch outlines capital campaign project
TIMES UNION - The Double H Ranch has secured $5 million of its $5.5 million capital campaign for a project to support a new residential lodge, adaptive playground, outdoor pavilion expansion and Camp-A-Theater... It has been supported through a gift from Business for Good.
March 25, 2023
Nani’s Iced Tea cuts ribbon in downtown Albany
NEWS10 - The Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Nani’s Iced Tea’s bottling facility at 99 Pine Street.
February 16, 2023
The return of Hattie’s Mardi Gras in Saratoga Springs raises over $100,000 to combat food insecurity in the region
February 3, 2023
Hattie’s Mardi Gras raises over $100K for Regional Food Bank
NEWS10 - Hattie’s Mardi Gras made a grand return after a four-year hiatus, raising over $100K for the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern NY.
February 3, 2023
Albany Black Chamber of Commerce opens doors at former University Club
TIMES UNION - Business for Good donated the historic building in downtown Albany to the newly created chamber after purchasing it for $950,000 last year.
February 2, 2023
Albany Black Chamber of Commerce & Social Club Holds Open House & Ribbon Cutting After Successful Grand Opening
February 1, 2023
Albany Black Chamber of Commerce & Social Club unveils its new home
WNYT - The Albany Black Chamber of Commerce & Social Club unveiled to the public its new home. The newly renovated space is meant to help Black entrepreneurs.
February 1, 2023
See inside the new Albany Black Chamber of Commerce
ALBANY BUSINESS REVIEW - The Albany Black Chamber of Commerce and Social Club is now open in downtown Albany.
February 1, 2023
SEEN: Hattie’s Mardi Gras 2023 to benefit the Regional Food Bank
TIMES UNION - Were you Seen at Hattie’s Mardi Gras to benefit the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York on Jan. 28, 2023, at the Canfield Casino in Saratoga Springs, N.Y?
January 30, 2023
Hattie’s Mardi Gras fundraiser to make long-awaited return
SARATOGIAN - After a four-year absence, the popular Hattie’s Mardi Gras fundraiser is returning later this month.
January 20, 2023
Bread Basket Cake Shop celebrates grand opening
SARATOGIAN - Longtime local business Bread Basket Bakery now has a space completely dedicated to cake with the opening of Bread Basket Cake Shop.
January 15, 2023
Saratoga Springs cake shop celebrates grand opening
NEWS10 - The Bread Basket Cake Shop celebrated its grand opening on January 12 with Business For Good, an organization that invests in people to build better businesses and stronger communities.
January 13, 2023
Bread Basket Cake Shop – a new destination for specialty cakes for all celebrations – launches in Saratoga Springs
January 12, 2023
New bakery opens in Saratoga Springs
WNYT - A new cake shop opened its doors Thursday in Saratoga County. The Bread Basket Cake Shop is the second location for the Bread Basket Bakery.
January 12, 2023
Bread Basket Bakery Unveils Dedicated Cake Shop
SARATOGA LIVING - The official ribbon-cutting for the reimagined store takes place on January 12.
January 11, 2023
Historic Albany selling some booths from Lombardo’s
TIMES UNION - As historic Albany restaurant is renovated to make way for a location of Hattie's, nonprofit's parts warehouse receives one- and two-sided booths to sell.
January 11, 2023
Non-profit helps give Albany business fresh start after COVID
WNYT - A capital investment from Business for Good will allow Nani’s Iced Tea to be available in stores in 2023 and beyond.
December 16, 2022
Funding helps Nani’s Iced Tea expand in Albany
TIMES UNION - An investment from the Business for Good organization is helping entrepreneur Maria Gallo expand the reach of her specially brewed Nani’s Iced Tea.
December 13, 2022
Hattie’s Mardi Gras returns after four years
NEWS10 - Hattie’s Restaurant in Saratoga Springs will be hosting its Mardi Gras celebration for the first time in four years. The 2023 beneficiary of this event is the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York.
November 25, 2022
BFG’s Lisa Mitzen in conversation with Look TV
LOOK TV - Co-founder of Business for Good sat down with Look TV about giving back to move forward.
November 14, 2022
Reclaiming a Black family’s history as American history
TIMES UNION - Jahkeen Hoke, a local business executive, researches family history, and discovers a great-great-great-great grandfather who fought for the Union Army's African-American regiment immortalized in the Denzel Washington film "Glory"
October 26, 2022
Local restaurant owner gifted with brand new van
WNYT - The owner and head chef of Allie B’s Cozy Kitchen in Albany just received a brand new van, from the non-profit organization, Business for Good.
October 20, 2022
Albany restaurant owner surprised with new catering van
NEWS10 - Owner and head chef of Allie B’s Cozy Kitchen Kizzy Williams was surprised with a new branded catering and delivery van, from Business for Good.
October 19, 2022
Comprehensive initiative announced to address homelessness in Saratoga Springs
THE SARATOGIAN- Saratoga Springs Mayor Ron Kim, joined by City Council members and County Officials, William Dake of Stewart’s Stores, and Ed and Lisa Mitzen of Fingerpaint Marketing and Business for Good, announced a comprehensive initiative to address the city’s homelessness.
October 18, 2022
Saratoga to open new year-round, 24-hour shelter for unhoused people
Times Union- “It will be a place for homeless individuals to go, get warm and be safe and dry,” Lisa Mitzen said on Monday. “It will help them get off the street, go and do their laundry, use the restroom and hopefully build a nice rapport with the staff who will offer the services they need.”
October 17, 2022
Albany native named new CEO of Albany Black Chamber of Commerce
Times Union- The Albany Black Chamber of Commerce is a new creation of Business for Good, a Capital Region nonprofit that works on equality and economic development issues and owns the University Club property in downtown Albany.
October 10, 2022
Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan releases design for new Lincoln Park pool
WAMC- The project received a major boost when Business for Good Co-founder Ed Mitzen donated $1 million to kick-off a $10 million Capital Campaign Committee fundraising effort for the project. Mitzen was named chair of the committee.
September 30, 2022
Winning design unveiled for new Lincoln Park Pool
TIMES UNION- Business for Good kicked off the fundraising campaign with a $1 million donation.
September 28, 2022
Second Voorheesville building razed for new restaurant
TIMES UNION- A total of three structures are being demolished to make way for a new restaurant and a cafe from Business for Good
September 14, 2022
Business for Good is Lead Sponsor for Black Theatre United’s Annual Gala
PLAYBILL- Throughout the evening, which is supported by Business for Good, BTU will also honor trailblazing leaders in Black theatre who are inspiring the next generation of Black theatre professionals.
September 7, 2022
Black Theatre United Inaugural Gala Supported by Business for Good
BROADWAY WORLD - Black Theatre United's inaugural gala, "A Night to Remember," will take place on Monday, October 3 at The Rooftop at Pier 17. Supported by Business for Good, the evening will begin with a concert featuring performances by America's most sought-after Black Broadway and theater talent.
September 7, 2022
Capital Region Chamber launches initiative to support growth of BIPOC-owned businesses
ALBANY BUSINESS REVIEW - The new chamber initiative is sponsored by Business For Good, the KeyBank Foundation and CDPHP. The initiative is offering free business growth services to Black-, Indigenous- and people of color-owned enterprises as well as support for the implementation of diversity, equity and inclusion practices.
August 18, 2022
Inside the plans for the new Hattie’s in Albany
ALBANY BUSINESS REVIEW - Work on the future home of Hattie's Restaurant in Albany could start as soon as September. The foundation backing the restaurant — Business For Good — is just waiting for historic tax credit approval, said founder Ed Mitzen. The renovation of the former Lombardo's on Madison Avenue near Pearl Street will take about 12 months and likely cost more than $2 million.
August 17, 2022
Tulsa judge allows 1921 race massacre lawsuit to move forward
CNN - In May, Ed Mitzen, the co-founder of the New York-based nonprofit Business for Good, presented a $1 million donation to Fletcher, Randle and Van Ellis as a way to start reckoning with the wrongs they've had to endure.
August 4, 2022
Restaurant seats aplenty coming to Voorheesville
TIMES UNION - In Voorheesville, BFG will replace the razed Stewart's at 42 S. Main with a 5,000-square-foot restaurant, to be called Blackbirds Tavern; a dentist's office across the street at 43 S. Main will be razed to make way for Blackbirds Bike Cafe; and a four-unit apartment building at 40 S. Main, behind the future tavern, will be removed to make way for a parking lot.
August 2, 2022
Discovering Saratoga: Hattie’s Track Shack
NEWS10 - Hattie’s Restaurant has made a name for itself for its award-winning cuisine, even named the best fried chicken in New York State by Food Network. “Hattie’s stood for community, everything she did was about supporting friends, family in the neighborhood so we just continue that tradition,” said Chef Mark Graham.
July 28, 2022
Hattie’s Fried Chicken Named Best in NY by The Food Network
WGNA - In a newly released rating of fried chicken from coast to coast, The Food Network dubbed Hattie’s Restaurant & Chicken Shack one of the best spots in the country, and the best in NY for golden, juicy, fried chicken!
July 22, 2022
Capital Region welcomes first female, minority-owned law firm
WNYT - The Capital Region has welcomed the first female, minority-owned law firm. On Wednesday, Kimberly Wallace and Raysheea Turner opened their doors to the community, with a vision for Wallace Turner Law.
July 21, 2022
Business for Good projects approved
VOORHEESVILLE — Fifteen months after it was first presented as a restaurant-only proposal, the Voorheesville Planning Commission recently approved Ed Mitzen’s scaled-up plan to remake a large part of the village’s downtown.
July 18, 2022
Business for Good welcomes new Chief Financial Officer
May 25, 2022
Opinion | Finally, some recompense to survivors of the Tulsa Race Massacre
THE POST'S VIEW — Officials of a New York-based philanthropic organization were inspired to donate $1 million to the last known survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre after reading news accounts of the three centenarians and their decades-long struggle to get some measure of justice.
May 21, 2022
3 Tulsa Massacre Survivors Receive $1 Million Donation
THE NEW YORK TIMES — Hughes Van Ellis, 101, Viola Fletcher, 108, and Lessie Benningfield Randle, 107, will split the money equally among themselves, said the donators.
May 19, 2022
Three survivors of Tulsa Race Massacre receive $1 million donation
CNN — As the last living survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre continue their fight for reparations, a New York philanthropist gifted them $1 million hoping it begins to account for the wrongs they have faced.
May 19, 2022
Three survivors of Tulsa Race Massacre receive $1 million donation
WASHINGTON POST — The last known living survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre received a $1 million donation Wednesday from a philanthropic organization — a substantial sum for the three centenarians more than 100 years after White mobs destroyed their community.
May 18, 2022
Business for Good’s Ed and Lisa Mitzen to travel to Tulsa, OK with $1 million donation for Tulsa Race Massacre survivors
May 18, 2022
Nonprofit donates $1 million to 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre survivors
FOX 25 — Over the last year, Americans have come to know the centenarian survivors of Tulsa's 1921 Race Massacre. That includes philanthropist Ed Mitzen in New York state.
May 17, 2022
NY Times Bestselling author Stephanie Land visits Saratoga Springs with inspiring story
May 6, 2022
Hattie’s Albany names chef, gives update on status
ALBANY BUSINESS REVIEW — Hattie's new location-in-progress in Albany is taking steps toward opening with the hiring of a notable chef.
May 5, 2022
Hattie’s names Mark Graham as chef of Albany location
TIMES UNION — Mark D. Graham, a veteran chef at many Capital Region restaurants over the past two decades, will be the head chef at the Hattie's Restaurant being developed to open in early 2023 in the historic former Lombardo's location on lower Madison Avenue.
May 5, 2022
Renowned executive chef joins Hattie’s Restaurants as Executive Chef, Hattie’s Albany
May 5, 2022
Social benefit and financial return don’t have to be exclusive. These 20 impact investing projects are proof
FAST COMPANY — The impact investing category of Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas Awards honors impact funds, social impact bonds, and other investments in changemaking organizations or initiatives that generate societal benefit along with financial return.
May 3, 2022
Business for Good awarded Honorable Mention for Fast Company’s 2022 World Changing Ideas
May 3, 2022
Donation to Albany rec center brings beauty and hope to kids
NEWS 10 — A local non-profit’s donation to a recreation center in Albany brought major upgrades and more opportunities for the community to find productive ways to spend their time.
April 27, 2022
Lisa Mitzen: Changing The Way Philanthropy is Done
HER LIFE MAGAZINE — Lisa Mitzen firmly believes if you have what you need, then you give to others.
April 26, 2022
Frank Chapman Memorial Institute Unveils New Upgrades to Community Rec Center
April 25, 2022
Mohawk Hudson Humane Society Receives Historic Donation; Reveals New Name for the Organization
SARATOGA TODAY — On April 11, the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society received the single largest gift in its 135-year history, a moment that comes as the result of a donation from Business for Good and Lisa and Ed Mitzen.
April 14, 2022
Foundation donates $1 million to Mohawk Hudson Humane Society
TIMES UNION — A local philanthropy donated $1 million to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society on Monday, by far the largest contribution in the shelter's 135-year history.
April 11, 2022
Mohawk Hudson Humane Society receives historic donation
April 11, 2022
Black chamber of commerce to open office in Albany’s University Club
TIMES UNION — The Upstate New York Black Chamber of Commerce is putting down roots in Albany as it moves into the University Club on Washington Avenue.
April 8, 2022
Former University Club building will be home of the new Albany Black Chamber
ALBANY BUSINESS REVIEW — The UpState New York Black Chamber of Commerce and Capital District Black Chamber of Commerce have joined together under a new name — Albany Black Chamber — and will be based in the historic building that was the longtime home of the University Club of Albany.
April 7, 2022
Business for Good announces partnership with the Albany Black Chamber
April 7, 2022
All in for Albany’s Robotics Team!
CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF ALBANY — We would like to take this opportunity to once again congratulate our Albany High School Robotics Team for its exceptional performance at the recent New York Tech Valley FIRST Regional Robotics Competition held at the MVP Arena.
March 30, 2022
University Club of Albany property sold to Business for Good Foundation
ALBANY BUSINESS REVIEW — The University Club of Albany, which served as a private social club for civic and business leaders for more than a century, has been sold.
March 29, 2022
Flooded with donations, Albany robotics team going to nationals
TIMES UNION — Basketball shooting robot 'Rein' to compete in national competition in Texas.
March 29, 2022
Additional Tickets Available for ‘MAID: A Conversation Series and Special Event’
SARATOGA TODAY — Wellspring and Business for Good™ recently announced that they are partnering to bring ‘MAID: A Conversation Series and Special Event’ to Universal Preservation Hall on Thursday, May 5. The first 200 tickets released were sold out in days.
March 24, 2022
Developers wanted to build a hotel, apartments and offices. The Mitzen family has other plans
ALBANY BUSINESS REVIEW — A vacant 16-acre property on Route 9 in Malta, where developers once sought to build a hotel, offices, retail and upscale apartments, could become home to the latest investment of Ed and Lisa Mitzen, the family behind the Business for Good Foundation of Saratoga Springs.
March 23, 2022
Wellspring and Business for Good™ release additional tickets to ‘MAID: A Conversation Series and Special Event’
March 18, 2022
“Maid” Author, Public Speaker at UPH in May
SARATOGA TODAY — Stephanie Land, bestselling author of “Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay and a Mother’s Will to Survive,” and inspiration for the 2021 Netflix miniseries, will be at Universal Preservation Hall at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 5.
March 17, 2022
Jahkeen Hoke Honored as 2021 Empire Whole Health Hero
TIMES UNION — What compels an individual to choose the welfare of people over personal profit, to return home when the world is available, to craft a vision of selflessly helping peers establish their own dreams?
March 11, 2022
Black History: Women attorneys build Capital Region law firm from scratch
SPECTRUM NEWS 1— Walking down the hall toward their law firm, attorneys Kimberly Wallace and Raysheea Turner are making a difference with each step.
February 23, 2022
Food Friday 2/18/22: Fried Chicken Summit
WAMC – Here it is, a show that has been years in the making. We bring together two of the greatest purveyors of fried chicken that you will find, north or south of the Mason-Dixon Line.
February 18, 2022
Non-profit gets $50k donation to help train people for tech jobs
WNYT.COM – The Business for Good Foundation, a local philanthropy organization, is at it again. The foundation is now helping CanCode Communities, a non-profit that helps local people who have an aptitude to work in software and technology but lack the resources for training.
February 15, 2022
Business for Good announces donation to Excelsior College
February 14, 2022
Upstate New York Digital Literacy Program Nets Donation
GOVERNMENT TECHNOLOGY — The digital literacy program CanCode got a boost Wednesday in the form of a $50,000 check from the Business for Good foundation, helping with its stated mission of providing digital skills training in the Albany region.
January 31, 2022
Donation boosts CanCode
TIMES UNION — The digital literacy program CanCode got a boost Wednesday in the form of a $50,000 check from the Business for Good foundation.
January 30, 2022
Business for Good Announces Donation to CanCode Communities
January 28, 2022
4 Millennial Changemakers in CapNY Housing
CAP NY — If you’ve spent time in Albany, there’s a chance that you’ve noticed a bright red ‘X’ on multiple buildings. Albany has a lot of homes that are currently vacant, dilapidated, and not up to safety codes.
January 26, 2022
Three Albany businesses win Business For Good foundation grants
TIMES UNION — A restaurateur, a florist and a property maintenance owner. Three different jobs, three different backgrounds.
January 8, 2022
Local refugee support organization receives $75k grant to continue their mission
NEWS 10– A $75,000 check was awarded to the Refugee and Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus Inc. (RISSE).
December 30, 2021
Old Stewart’s Shop reduced to rubble, making way for new restaurant
ALTAMONT ENTERPRISE– On Monday, the long-closed Voorheesville Stewart’s Shop was torn down.
December 21, 2021
Paid to eat and do homework, teens flock to jobs at Hattie’s
TIMES UNION– Since the pandemic, staff shortages have been the bane of restaurateurs.
December 16, 2021
‘Miss Hattie’s Homework Hour’ for Teen Employees
SARATOGA TODAY– A new initiative at Hattie’s Restaurant allows teen staff to come straight to Hattie’s from school, punch in an hour before their shift, work on homework, and be fed.
December 9, 2021
Grondahl: Partners overcome hurdles facing lawyers of color
TIMES UNION– Kimberley Wallace, Raysheea Turner launch what's believed to be Capital Region's only law firm owned and operated by two Black women
December 8, 2021
St. Anne Institute Receives $100k Donation from Business for Good
SARATOGA TODAY– St. Anne Institute, an agency that has been providing therapeutic programs and services for young women, individuals, and families for over 100 years, has recently received a $100k donation from Business for Good.
December 2, 2021
For young workers, Hattie’s knows the assignment: ‘homework hour’
SPECTRUM NEWS 1– Twenty years after she and her husband Jasper bought the restaurant, Alexander says this is one way to give back to the young people who help make their business thrive.
November 22, 2021
Saratoga’s Business for Good Is Transforming Giving
SARATOGA LIVING– When local philanthropists Ed and Lisa Mitzen first unveiled their Business for Good (BFG) foundation this past summer, it caused quite a stir in the Saratoga Springs community.
November 17, 2021
Open Door Mission receives $500,000 donation
THE POST STAR– After a chance meeting between a staff member at Open Door Mission and a friend at a race in Saratoga Springs, wheels started turning.
November 17, 2021
$500K grant for Open Door Mission
FOOTHILLS BUSINESS DAILY – The Open Door Mission in Glens Falls got an unexpected $500,000 boost recently from the Saratoga-based Business for Good Foundation.
November 8, 2021
The Capital Region’s Best Fried Chicken Joints
Q105.7 103.5 – We've tallied up your votes to determine the best restaurants for fried chicken in the Capital Region.
November 7, 2021
Business for Good donates $250,000 to Capital District Latinos
TIMES UNION – Capital District Latinos got good news Wednesday toward its efforts to renovate and rehabilitate its headquarters and community center on Central Avenue.
November 4, 2021
Wellspring opens new community wing built with $500,000 Business for Good Foundation™ donation
SARATOGA REPORT – Wellspring opens new community wing built with $500,000 Business for Good Foundation™ donation; unveils mural that symbolizes growth, hope, change, and resilience
November 4, 2021
Business for Good Foundation™ announces new neighborhood restaurant in the Village of Voorheesville; holds community event to gather input and ideas
November 1, 2021
Voorheesville restaurant project due in mid-2023
TIMES UNION – The next restaurant announced for the village is not likely to open for another 14 to 18 months, residents were told Saturday during a party thrown by the Saratoga Spring-based Business for Good foundation, which is developing the project.
November 1, 2021
Hattie’s Restaurant offers ‘Miss Hattie’s Homework Hour’ to teen workers
NEWS 10– If you have ever worked a job while in school, you know how hard it can be to balance work and education.
October 30, 2021
Hattie’s new Albany location part of unique nonprofit effort
TIMES UNION – Business for Good sparked excitement in Albany with a sign in the window of the former Lombardo's Restaurant announcing Hattie's Chicken Shack, another iconic brand, is moving into the building, but it is only one of many moves the new philanthropic foundation has made in the last 10 months.
October 28, 2021
Foundation throwing Voorheesville party, seeking restaurant input
TIMES UNION – The Business for Good foundation is throwing a party for villagers on Saturday, Oct. 30, and is seeking input on what type of restaurant the community would like to see in a vacant former Stewart's store that the foundation bought earlier this year.
October 27, 2021
Why Are These Guys So Happy?
THE 12866 – In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), AIM Services, Inc., one of the area’s largest providers of services and support for individuals with disabilities, will receive a $25K Grant $50K from the Business for Good Foundation to solidify plans for a “Career Center” to support its Employment Services program
October 21, 2021
Wellspring opens new community wing built with $500,000 Business for Good Foundation™ donation; unveils mural that symbolizes growth, hope, change and resilience
October 20, 2021
Businesses beating the odds, expanding despite pandemic
CAPITAL REGION, NY (WRGB) — From furniture.. to food. Two unrelated businesses betting on themselves to successfully bring their product to new locations.
October 20, 2021
Hattie’s fried chicken coming to Albany’s South End
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Hattie’s Restaurant, a popular fried chicken joint in Saratoga, is opening a location in Albany. The restaurant will open in the old Lombardo’s Restaurant space that’s been empty since 2018.
October 15, 2021
Hattie’s Restaurant to Open Fourth Location in Downtown Albany
CAPITAL REGION LIVING – Get ready for some breaking news from the Capital Region’s fried chicken scene: Hattie’s Restaurant, Saratoga’s longtime comfort food HQ, will be opening a new location in the former Lombardo’s Restaurant on Madison Avenue in Downtown Albany.
October 13, 2021
Business for Good Foundation™ takes part in national Do Something Nice Day
October 12, 2021
2021 Capital Region Gives Back: Lisa Mitzen, Member of the Board of Directors, Shelters of Saratoga
SARATOGA LIVING – In December 2013, Nancy Pitts, a 54-year-old woman without a home, froze to death on the loading dock of the Saratoga Springs Senior Center. It shook the city to its core.
September 9, 2021
Business for Good Foundation Donates Long-Term Use of 1 Franklin Square to Shelters of Saratoga
SARATOGA LIVING–The historic building, which is currently equipped to house at least four furnished apartments, will help expand SOS's affordable apartments program.
August 18, 2021
Business for Good: Local Entrepreneurs Present a Model for Philanthropy
SARATOGA TODAY — It is a place where local businesses thrive and share their prosperity with the community. It is where full-time employees receive free healthcare benefits and competitive salaries, and where entrepreneurs are provided tools to help them succeed and flourish.
July 15, 2021
Foundation buys Capital Region businesses to donate profits to charity
WNYT — An area foundation is buying up and running successful local businesses and giving away all the profits to charity.
July 13, 2021
Community Leaders Create New, Innovative Philanthropy Model
July 13, 2021
Business for Good helping local restaurants
NEWS10 — Hattie’s in Saratoga has been a staple in the community for over 80 years. After surviving the pandemic, the restaurant is now partnering with a new foundation called Business for Good.
July 13, 2021
A New Bottom Line
ALBANY BUSINESS REVIEW – Ed Mitzen started three companies over the past 25 years, creating more than 800 jobs with a combined annual revenue exceeding $800 million.
July 8, 2021
Foundation poised to buy Hattie’s
TIMES UNION – Entrepreneurs Lisa and Ed Mitzen and their new foundation, Business For Good, are closing in on a deal to purchase Hattie’s Restaurant in Saratoga Springs and Hattie’s Chicken Shack in Wilton from Beth and Jasper Alexander.
July 8, 2021
Ed and Lisa Mitzen Form Business for Good, Acquire Hattie’s Restaurant
June 23, 2021